Storm hits island

 Biem Island, north east of Wewak, was hit by a storm that damaged homes and gardens last Monday.

Reports said wind gusts of up to 30 knots per hour left a path of destruction.  

Ward councillor Rod Kador, who contacted the island through the New Tribe Mission radio network, said many people lost their gardens.

“They are likely to face food shortage over the coming weeks because most of the islanders lost their gardens.

“Many houses were damaged. Two were blown apart and will require full maintenance.

“The Catholic Church building was damaged by the strong winds.

“By God’s grace no human life was lost. We are requesting relief assistance from the provincial disaster office,” Kador said.